Abstract
Dr. Thomas Coke (1747-1814), an Anglican clergyman, became John Wesley’s Assistant in Methodist work in England. In 1784 Coke was “set apart” by Wesley as Superintendent—later designated Bishop —and sent as his emissary to American Methodists. Coke presided at the Christmas Conference in Baltimore at which time the Methodist Episcopal Church came into being. In all, he made nine trips to the
United States. Known as Father of Methodist Missions, Coke supervised British Methodist outreach. His extensive travels included four voyages to the West Indies. He died en route to Ceylon. A man of keen social consciousness, great interest in education and fiery evangelistic passion. Coke stands as a fascinating personality in eighteenth-nineteenth century church history.